Our therapists in Woodbridge, VA offer counseling for loneliness

I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with 3 years of experience providing compassionate mental health care across the lifespan. My background as both a nurse and a provider has shaped my calm, steady, and holistic approach to treatment. I help individuals navigate anxiety, depression, stress, and daily challenges by creating a supportive environment where clients feel heard, respected, and understood.

I earned my master’s degree in nursing from Ohio University and use a patient-centered, safety-focused approach to guide care. I draw from methods such as motivational interviewing to tailor treatment to each person’s needs and goals, helping clients build insight, strengthen coping skills, and create meaningful change.

I am committed to offering a warm, collaborative space where you can explore your mental health needs at a pace that feels comfortable. Your story matters, and you deserve care that honors your voice. When you feel ready, I invite you to schedule an appointment so we can take the next steps in your healing together.

Kedian Gooden is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) committed to assisting individuals with mental health challenges to live more productive lives and improve their functioning in society. As a PMHNP, Kedian’s role is to provide safe, quality psychiatric care to individuals and their families. She is well versed in applying an evidence-based approach to conducting a psychiatric assessment, medication evaluation, and management for a wide variety of mental health conditions. Furthermore, Kedian has over 15 years of experience in health care, working in various positions, which have aided in her developing the necessary skills and abilities for providing the highest quality behavioral health care.

In 2007, Kedian obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in nursing at the Northern Caribbean University. Over the years, she grew to love and appreciate caring for individuals with mental health conditions, which gave her the drive to improve the quality of care and bring more awareness to reduce the daunting stigma plaguing the mental health community. She then furthered her studies at Walden University, achieving a Master of Science degree in nursing specializing in mental health care across a life span. Kedian possesses exceptional clinical skills and a natural ability to build rapport with clients and their families.

Kedian is passionate and highly motivated in delivering high-quality, compassionate, client-centered care. She demonstrates empathetic listening skills and establishes a therapeutic alliance with patients, family, or caregivers in a nonjudgmental and safe virtual environment. If you are ready to take control of your mental health, join her and schedule an appointment with her today!

Hi, I am Ryan Wade, a psychiatrist board certified in Psychiatry, Addiction Psychiatry, and Addiction Medicine. I completed medical school and my Psychiatry residency at Eastern Virginia Medical School, followed by an Addiction Psychiatry fellowship at Yale University School of Medicine. Despite my training in the addiction field, I spend a large portion of my time focusing on mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, and more. I find that I typically work most with people who want to consolidate their medication regimen or those who view medication as a tool, not solely the solution to the issues they are facing.

I attempt to meet people where they are and the level they are willing to engage with treatment as this varies significantly from person to person. I believe psychotherapy is quite powerful for most people and routinely recommend it alongside my work with clients, including any medications I would potentially prescribe. 

If you are considering seeing someone for your mental health — or even wondering if what you are feeling day-to-day is "normal" and would like an assessment — feel free to schedule an appointment. There is no pressure to start medication or to even continue in treatment if you feel that it isn't right for you. I look forward to meeting you soon!

I am Dr. Chika Okeoma, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner dedicated to compassionate, culturally responsive care. I work with children, adolescents, and adults facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, mood disorders, and life transitions. Many of my clients seek clarity, emotional balance, and practical tools to improve their daily lives. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where individuals feel heard, respected, and empowered as they work toward healing and lasting mental wellness.

My approach combines evidence-based treatment, thoughtful medication management, and a holistic understanding of each person’s experiences. I collaborate closely with clients to develop personalized treatment plans that may include medication, therapy strategies, and lifestyle support to help them build resilience and meaningful progress.

I believe every person deserves to feel understood, supported, and hopeful about their future. No matter where you are in your mental health journey, you do not have to navigate it alone. Together, we can work toward greater balance, clarity, and well-being. I look forward to supporting you on your path forward.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 4 years of experience supporting individuals through life transitions, anxiety, grief, mood disorders, trauma, and substance use. I specialize in working with adults who feel stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected—from themselves, their relationships, or their sense of purpose. Many of my clients come to therapy seeking clarity, healing, and a more grounded sense of self. Together, we work to understand patterns that no longer serve them, build resilience, and cultivate meaningful change.

I earned my Master’s in Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University and I ground my approach in evidence-based practices such as cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and dialectical behavioral therapy. I support clients in slowing down, tuning into their emotions and patterns, and making intentional choices.

I know that reaching out for support can feel vulnerable, and I want you to know you are not alone in whatever you are facing. If you’re ready to explore your story and take steps toward healing or growth, I’d be honored to walk alongside you. When you are ready, I invite you to take that next step—we will move forward at your pace together.

Catherine Ben-Agu is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C. who has more than 10 years of experience in psychiatry. Catherine partners with children, adolescents, adults, as well as geriatric clients who seek help with diverse psychiatric problems. She specializes in facilitating significant improvement in her clients’ presenting symptoms through proper assessment, accurate diagnoses, prescriptions, treatment, and evaluation. Catherine is experienced in various psychiatric disorders including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), attention deficit disorder (ADD), personality disorders, substance abuse disorder (SUD), eating disorders, suicidal ideation, schizophrenia, sleep problems, and many more.

Catherine completed both her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and her PMHNP at Walden University. She provides nonjudgmental cultural competency when caring for people from different backgrounds. Catherine possesses strong clinical skills and a natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. In addition to medication management, she incorporates cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, culturally sensitive, emotionally-focused, faith-based, motivational interviewing, and person-centered techniques into treatment. Through great interpersonal and communication skills, Catherine is able to establish trust, and communicate with clients in a therapeutic manner that upholds respect and preserves a client’s dignity and autonomy. She is culturally competent, nonjudgmental, and uses compassion, empathy, and active listening in all her interactions with clients.

Catherine desires to collaborate with you in a caring/therapeutic relationship. She is confident that she would be able to support you on your journey to gain new perspectives and techniques that allow you to cope with whatever you may be struggling with. If you are ready to get started, schedule an appointment with Catherine today.

Robb is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, family difficulties, school issues, sleep/insomnia, work-related stress, and many more challenges that everyday Americans face. He is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, concise, and nonjudgmental mental health services to clients of all ages. As a PMHNP, Robb's role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, therapist, and medication manager. While working in psychiatric hospitals, Robb has learned how to listen to his patients the way he wants to be listened to when he sees his own personal physician. Robb makes it his goal to include the patient in every step of the decision-making process to individually tailor the patient's treatment plan to their needs. Whether it is medication management, therapy, or a coordinated effort with the patient's personal healthcare providers, Robb wants to deliver the fastest, easiest, and most effective results that he can for his clients.

Robb completed his Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN) at East Tennessee State University and began his medical career as a Patient Care Tech over 20 years ago. Robb possesses strong clinical skills and a natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. Robb is frequently appointed as a teacher and is given the responsibility of orienting new nurses at every hospital and facility he has ever worked in, including East Tennessee State University. The same genuine nature and approachability that make him a good teacher are what make it easy for Robb's patients to talk to him. Robb believes that the best tool every mental health provider has available to them is their ears. He knows that if he really listens to his patients, then with his training he can give them the best possible care they can receive. In addition to medication management, he incorporates cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) along with culturally sensitive, emotionally focused, faith-based, patient-centered techniques into his patient's treatment.

Life is hard. And the reason that Robb is the best provider to help you is that he has not only lived through life's tough challenges, but he has also learned what it means to listen when others are experiencing them. Robb has spent the last 4 years treating patients struggling with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, PTSD, occupationally-related stress, phobias, faith struggles, sudden states of panic, and even very intense schizophrenia in people of all ages and all walks of life. When in a session with Robb, you will not feel judged, you will not feel embarrassed, and you will not feel stupid; but most importantly you will feel like you are being heard. Robb's goal from session number one is to make you feel like you have found a real support person to help you meet whatever challenge you have in front of you. You have come to Thriveworks today because you are facing problems that you do not believe you can face on your own. It won't be difficult, and it won't be nerve-wracking. When you get into your first session with Robb you will see just how easy it is, and you will thank yourself for years to come for making this decision. You've already decided that you need help, and Robb can set you on the path to concurring with your challenges. So, take the next step and schedule your appointment with Robb today!

I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 2 years of experience in the mental health field. I work with clients across the lifespan who are navigating challenges such as anxiety, mood disorders, stress management, and adjustment difficulties. In my practice, I focus on helping clients stabilize mood, reduce anxiety, enhance emotional regulation, strengthen relationships, and build long-term resilience while supporting their overall growth and quality of life.

I earned my Master’s in Nursing from Shenandoah University, where I developed a strong foundation in psychiatric care and evidence-based practices. I specialize in treating mood disorders, anxiety, and dementia-related behavioral changes, and I provide a combination of medication management, supportive psychotherapy, and psychoeducation.

I understand that seeking support can feel overwhelming, and I strive to meet clients with warmth and empathy. I create a safe, collaborative space where struggles can be shared, solutions explored, and healing achieved. I encourage anyone experiencing emotional or behavioral challenges to take the first step toward growth and resilience.

Ileana is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, insomnia, and other mental health issues that may be interfering with normal daily functioning. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adults. As a PMHNP, Ileana's view of mental health care is as a mutual partnership where she takes things at your pace. She prioritizes patient-focused care that is individually tailored to meet your needs.

Ileana completed her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) at Bloomsburg University. She places emphasis on psycho-education to instill confidence in her clients to make informed decisions about their care. Ileana possesses strong clinical skills and a natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. In addition to medication management, she incorporates cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, solution-focused brief, faith-based, and person-centered techniques into treatment.

Challenges and difficulties are a part of our life, but instead of getting sad and anxious about that, let's make our mental health a priority by keeping a positive mindset and taking a step today toward a better tomorrow. Ileana is confident that she would be able to support you on your journey to gain new perspectives and techniques that allow you to cope with whatever you may be struggling with. She is happy to coordinate care with your therapist, primary care doctor, or other specialists to ensure your optimal wellness. If you are ready to get started, schedule an appointment with her today.

Dr. Emma Boateng is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 13 years of nursing practice. Emma has extensive experience in mental health, psycho-education, patient care, and chronic pain management. She uses evidence-based practice to achieve patient goals. Emma treats various conditions including depression, ADHD, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, anger, relationship issues, grief/loss, stress, OCD, and eating disorders. Emma believes every person is unique, creating individualized care plans for her clients. She puts her patients first and provides respectful care.

Dr. Boateng earned her Doctorate in Nursing Practice, Master of Science in Nursing, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse certification, and PMHNP certification at Walden University. Emma is compassionate, caring, and advocates for her clients. She uses her extensive clinical skills to assess, diagnose, and treat disorders in individuals and their families.

Knowing that mental health impacts the lives of individuals and their families, Dr. Boateng has the ability to build rapport, show support, and provide therapeutic and holistic care for patients so that they can live a happier and healthier life. Do not hesitate to schedule an appointment with her today.

I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 10 years of nursing experience, including acute care, emergency room, and critical care. My broad experience across healthcare settings allows me to personalize treatment and medication management for adults, adolescents, and children with anxiety, depression, psychotic disorders, and trauma-related conditions.

I earned my Master’s in Nursing from Walden University, where I concentrated on psychiatric care. My approach to care begins with a thorough evaluation of symptoms and medication needs, followed by continuous collaboration to ensure progress and comfort while prioritizing safety and patient-centered outcomes.

My goal is to provide a compassionate, judgment-free environment where clients feel supported throughout their healing journey. Together, we will develop effective, individualized treatment strategies to reduce symptoms, restore balance, and help you achieve peace of mind and emotional well-being.

Theo is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, school issues, and sleep/insomnia. He is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adults. As a PMHNP, Theo's role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, therapist, and medication manager.

Theo completed his Master of Nursing Degree (MSN) at The University of Toledo. Theo possesses strong clinical skills and a natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. In addition to medication management, he incorporates cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), culturally sensitive, emotionally-focused, motivational interviewing, and person-centered techniques into treatment.

Now is as good a time as ever to have your mental health concerns addressed! Theo is confident that he would be able to support you on your journey to gain new perspectives and techniques that allow you to cope with whatever you may be struggling with. If you are ready to get started, schedule an appointment with him today!

Christal Nelson is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) and substance counselor with over 8 years of experience. Before Christal entered the mental health field, she enjoyed a career in EMS and Medical Transport for approximately 15 years. It was the medical field that fostered her passion to assist in the mental health field, and it also geared her empathy towards grief, trauma, and addictions. In addition, it gave Christal an early insight into burnout and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), so during her tenure as a therapist she became certified in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). As a therapist she is passionate to work with adolescents and adults, to overcome challenges so that they may live more fulfilling lives. Christal specializes in depression, anxiety, trauma, addictions, grief/loss, and bipolar disorders. 

Christal completed both her bachelor's degree in Psychology and her Master of Science (MS) in Professional Counseling at Liberty University. She is eclectic in her therapeutic modalities but includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and motivational interviewing (MI) to guide her clients in the therapeutic process. 

Loss is loss, trauma is trauma, and grief is grief. When life is hard, it's hard--but you do not have to go through it alone. Christal is confident that she would be able to support you on your journey to gain new perspectives and techniques that allow you to cope with whatever you may be going through. If you are ready to do the work, schedule an appointment with her today.